This September, the Hawaii Employers Council will launch the inaugural Hawaii Leadership Academy, a dynamic, five-week program designed to strengthen the skills, vision, and impact of senior leaders in Hawaii.

The Academy is tailored for professionals at the director level and above across various industries who are ready to refine their leadership approach, expand their influence, and connect with a network of peers equally committed to growth. Developed in partnership with Hawaii Business magazine, the program blends executive skill-building, strategic leadership development, and intentional networking into an intensive learning experience.

A Program for Today’s Leadership Challenges
The Hawaii Leadership Academy runs on five consecutive Friday mornings — September 12, 19, and 26, and October 3 and 10, 2025 — with networking starting at 7:00 a.m. and sessions from 8:00 a.m. to noon. Class size is intentionally limited to ensure an interactive, personalized experience.

Over the course of the program, participants will explore a range of topics essential to navigating today’s complex business environment. Sessions will address:

• Agile Leadership & Organizational Impact – Building trust and credibility, coaching for success, and leading with a people-first mindset.
• Talent & Culture – Strategies for attracting top talent, fostering employee engagement, and building resilient, high-performing teams.
• Leading Through Change – Effective change management and process improvement tools.
• Multi-Generational Workforce Leadership – Communication styles, mentoring, and succession planning.
• Strategic Thinking & the Future of Business – Financial acumen, marketing trends, and applied AI.

Each week also features a Leadership Talk Story with one of Hawaii’s most respected leaders, including Mayor Rick Blangiardi, Christine Camp (CEO, Avalon Development), Mark Fukunaga (Chairman, Servco), Meli James (Co-Founder, Mana Up), and Duane Kurisu (Chairman, aio Family of Companies).

Real-World Learning, Real-World Impact
Sarah Guay, HEC President & CEO, says the Academy offers “highly curated, immersive learning experiences and insights from top-tier C-suite executives” that translate directly into results for organizations. Participants will leave with practical tools, new perspectives, and a stronger executive network to help them lead effectively in Hawaii’s unique business environment.

Tracie Foglia, HEC’s Talent Solution Manager and curriculum lead, emphasizes the Academy’s focus on both personal and organizational growth. “It’s ideal for professionals who want to refine their leadership approach, enhance decision-making, and expand their executive network,” she says.

A Unique Opportunity
The Hawaii Leadership Academy is more than a training program; it’s a chance to be part of a legacy. As a member of the inaugural cohort, participants will help set the tone for future classes and join an expanding network of alumni leaders.

The Hawaii Leadership Academy is proudly presented in partnership with our sponsors, Hawaii State Federal Credit Union and Servco, whose support helps make this transformative program possible.

Learn more about the Hawaii Leadership Academy in Hawaii Business: A New Program Offers Advanced Leadership Training for Rising Executives and register now–registration ends September 1, 2025 and only eight seats remain!